“But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed.” Galatians 1:8

There is a simple fact that every believer must acknowledge in their walk with Christ, and that is this, you and I are not God. Nor are we little gods. Nor do we have the same power or ability to think and act and create like God. Even more so, neither do our words have the same power as Gods words. The simple fact is, man is a creation of God, made a little above the angels itself, without the ability nor power to imitate God in action or in deeds, or in this case – words. The truth is, our words are not on the same level as God almighty and have virtually no power within themselves. In other words, when we speak nothing happens, but when God speaks everything happens, because he’s God and we’re not.

Yet there is a teaching which has gained prominence within the Charismatic/Pentecostal circles by suggesting that not only are we little gods, not only can we duplicate what God can do, we can equally speak things as a god and see those words literally transform nothing into something. It is called Positive Affirmation, or what is generally referred to by some as the power within the tongue. The belief is very simple, and very dangerous, but it goes something like this; A believer has a special need (money, health, career change, relationship, etc.) and they desire this with great fervor, but they don’t know how to bring it to pass. The answer? Simply speak it into existence. Sounds far fetched right? Yet if the truth be told, there are millions of Christians within the Charismatic/Pentecostal circles who have bought into this lie that says if one desires to change their circumstances in life, all one has to do is simply speak it into being and it will come. The problem is that it never works.

Teachers such as Kenneth Copeland, Joel Osteen, Joyce Meyer, Jesse Duplantis and a boatload of others, have made millions of dollars in book sales all in trying to convince an unsuspecting Christian that they have the power within themselves to speak something out of nothing and gain whatever they want. The problem is, A) It’s not scriptural, and B) It’s not possible. To be clear, Jesus told us that if we followed him, that we too could (and would) perform miracles – but as the Spirit leads. The fact remains that while the gifts of the Holy Spirit are valid today (1 Corinthians chapter 12), the ability to just speak something is not only foolish, or unscriptural, it was never taught by the early church leaders, or Christ himself.

Believe it or not, the Positive Confession movement has no actual basis within the early church, nor was it rooted at all within modern or even past Christian teachings, it literally came from the occult world and went by another title, The Law of Attraction. This occult method is standard 101 information for anyone involved in the secret world of witchcraft and sorcery. The idea is simple, whatever you are attracted to, or desire, all you have to do is channel the strong desire within your mind to receive it, and by doing so, you can have it. This method has been utilized for hundreds, if not thousands of years by those who perform the dark arts of gaining whatever they desire. The problem with the confession, speaking it into existence, law of attraction is, it’s tapping into the spiritual realm, and certainly not what is of God.

It is amazing that when we examine the teachings and ideas promoted by a select few who claim to receive a revelation from God that is never based on the word of God, we begin to see its true source – Satan. Yet this is exactly the facts as it relates to the Positive Confession movement that has unfortunately polluted the church world today. From its roots from the early druids and pagans, the teaching of the Law of Attraction remains to this day the tool by which some within the modern church world has cleverly utilized which would deceive many by its false teachings. One would think that if they understood that ours is not to simply call forth everything into being that it would become true, nor by simply suggesting that if one merely spoke something by faith that it would happen. The truth is, God desires us to pray his will for whatever we need, not ours. This is the problem of self, it does not desire to submit to God’s perfect plan, but instead, rely on self and self desires (money, material things) to gain something simply by declaring it so. It’s all a clever ruse to blind the believer to a belief that he or she is able to do things on a thought, or word, and not rely on God’s word.

So how did this particular teaching come into the church today?

His name was E.W. Kenyon. Kenyon was born on April 25, 1867. He was introduced to the faith from the Methodist movement of that particular time. It was there he was introduced to the early teachings of the New Thought movement, and subsequently became aware of this new teaching which stated that if one speaks something, one will receive something, all by faith. Kenyon would go on to become affiliated with the growing Pentecostal movement which was happening in that time, the re-birth of the advent of the Pentecost in the book of Acts, and would find himself learning as well as teaching at the Emerson School. From the early writings of E.W. Kenyon, his works would include many gleanings from the occult world, new age spiritualism, and the Law of Attraction that would be taken and used by later generations, namely one Kenneth Hagin, who equally was influenced by Kenyon’s claims of Positive Affirmations.

Yet even though Kenyon was a contributor to what we now call “Positive Talk”, it has literally taken on a life of its own. But not just by the church world, even today, New Age teachers such as Oprah Winfrey, Eckhart Tolle, Rhonda Byrne (author of The Secret), as well as many more. This Law of Attraction, the ability to think and then say something into reality is not a product of man, far from it. The teaching itself dates back to one individual who said to himself “I shall be like the most high. I will place my throne above his.” – Satan. It was Satan who was the originator of Positive Confession, and it was Satan who went into the garden and said to Eve, “Did God actually say, ‘You shall not eat of any tree in the garden’?”(Genesis 3:1) For when Eve reminded Satan of what God said not to do, it as Satan who then presented a different way of thinking, “You surely will not die.”“For God knows that in the day you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” (Genesis 3:4-5)

Satan presented a positive affirmation, which was literally the foundation to Law of Attraction with Eve. Satan simply said, ignore what God says, confess that you shall have great wisdom and great understanding and I will not die. In other words, think it, say it and believe it and it will come to you. The reality is, Eve did receive understanding, but it was the understanding of what God strictly forbid, and thus, because of Adam, sin entered into the world. Thus, the Law of Attraction, power of the tongue to say something into existence is rooted directly from pride. It is sin.

If we could simply say things into reality, then why is there great trouble in the world? If we can simply speak something into being, then why is there hunger? Or war? Or death and disease? If there is power in our tongue, then why did Paul, the great Apostle who faced many a hardship pray three times that God would remove the thorn in his side, but God said “NO!”, but that his grace was sufficient for him? (2 Corinthians 12:8-9)

The fact is this, our authority is limited to what Christ has given to us in his word because of the cross, and nothing more. Yes, we have the power (authority) to claim some spiritual matters as it relates to our faith, but it must always be found consistent with the word of God, it can never go beyond God’s word. If we pray his will, then we will find our will and prayers will be aligned perfectly, even if some things we confess or pray for do not come, sometimes God simply says “No” and we must learn to trust him regardless, for he knows better than we.

Jesus only gives us authority to do what he commissioned us to do – preach the gospel, disciple the nations, heal the sick, cast out demons, etc. He does not give us ALL authority. Nor does he give us the power to speak things into being simply because we want it or desire it, that is the lure of the garden and the tree itself that Satan continues to tempt fallen man with, even Christians, that if we think it and say it, we can have it. But God says otherwise. Don’t fall for this trap, but instead trust God, pray with faith with what he has faithfully given to us, the cross, and believe for those things which he desires, that souls be saved. Everything else will come, or not come based on God’s determination and plan, not by our words.

“But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed.” Galatians 1:8

Not since the stunning election of Donald Trump, have we experienced such a surge of surprises within the church as we are when it comes to false teachings and its messengers. Particularly in the case of the teachings regarding Dominionism. Dominion Theology found its birth through the teachings of one R. J. Rushdoony in the mid 1960s. An advocate for Calvinist, Rushdoony was the originator of the belief that says nations, particularly the United States, should forsake the Constitution as its foundation for rule of law, and instead impose the law of Moses in its place. Rushdoony was strongly hostile to the concept of grace alone for salvation, nor was he in favor of Christianity operating outside the spectrum of the cross, instead, Rushdoony believed and taught that the only true method by which the church could influence society was in fact through the injection of Christian law, via the law of Moses, into the political structure of American Government, thereby giving the church full control over every area of influence to impose Christian beliefs and doctrine. Under Rushdoony’s particular theological beliefs, men would not have freewill to live any which way he desired, this included any beliefs which ran counter to strict Calvinist theology, nor would the church operate by the gifts of the Holy Spirit as the early church did in the book of Acts. Obviously this would cause significant issues with mainline Calvinist theology and Pentecostal beliefs, yet Rushdoony believed that the central doctrine which would govern men in America would be Theocracy and not Democracy.

There are many branches to Dominion Theology; Christian Reconstructionism, Kingdom Now Theology, New Apostolic Reformation (NAR), The Latter Rain Movement; Joel’s Army; The 7 Mountain Mandate; Third Wave Revivalism; are all rooted by one foundation – Dominion Theology. These teachings have one common theme, that the church will take dominion over the earth, over all Governments, over all aspects of society, and begin to wield its own version of heaven-on-earth Christianity. No greater area of concern as it relates to Dominion Theology is in the area of politics.

When Trump was introduced to the world as a possible, but unlikely candidate for the Presidency, many scoffed at the idea that said he even had a remote chance of becoming the next President of the United States of America. Yet there were a few men (and women) who were voicing a different tone about Trump, and surprisingly, they were coming from well known evangelical circles. Pat Robertson, Paula White, Kim Clement, Lance Wallnau, Jim Bakker, Rick Joyner, David Jeremiah, Dr. James Dobson, and many more Charismatic/Pentecostal and Calvinist leaders were quick to align themselves with Mr. Trump. But why? Why Trump and why now?

While I cannot say with full knowledge at why Trump was elected, I can suggest that based on everything to date that I have seen, heard and witnessed, there is something spiritual at work here, but to suggest that God is the author of it would be wrong on my part, more so, I believe this movement of Dominion Theology is by itself part of the greater plan by the enemy to prepare the world, as well as the church, to some degree, for what he is creating, his final kingdom.

Dominion Theology is error, scriptural error. It portrays something different than what Christ told us in scripture, for it portrays the hope of the church not in the cross and our savior, but instead, it portrays its hope in restoration of this earthly kingdom – now. This is completely against the word. Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world…”(John 18:36).

Dominion Theology as well removes awareness of the Lords return. It denies scripture as it regards the end times, twisting it to instead reject end times preparedness, and instead, embraces a more peace centered, revivalist themed worldview. This is one of the reasons why we hear so much about a massive end time revival, or a great harvest, or a great awakening, it’s all part of a spiritual deception to reject the word of God in favor of a more relevant, universal religion which incorporates those of other faiths coming together under one banner – unity. The Apostle Paul said otherwise; “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days.” (2 Timothy 3:1)

Let me even more clear so there is no confusion on what Dominion Theology really is when we strip away the facade and see it for what it truly is – Religious Globalism under the guise of the spirit of Antichrist. This religious establishment, the people behind Donald Trump, the visions, the dreams, the call for unity among other faiths, the bridge being built between Protestantism and Roman Catholicism are in fact being led by the spirit of Antichrist. The church in America, and it’s embracing of Nationalism, its worship of Patriotism at the altar of Dominionism, is itself idolatry, and one the church needs to repent of.

Our mandate is the same as when Christ ascended until He returns: The Great Commission (Mark 16:15) and disciple believers from all the nations (Matt. 28:19). We are NOT to overthrow the governments of the world, take over businesses, or desire Christian world domination by taking over everything. Our desire is to influence society with the gospel, not become part of it. We are to be light and salt (Matt. 5:13-15), working until the Lord comes (1 John 2:28). What we are seeing however is a movement which is causing a spell within the body of Christ, and those who are under that spell have become convinced that what they are doing will be better for the world as well as for the church, the problem is, they are following the spirit of this world, and he and he alone has a greater agenda, to bring them under rule, for his name is Satan, and his son shall be Antichrist.

“But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another.” Galatians 5:15

Nothing grieves the Lord more than how his people treat one another, specifically, when his people slander one another, or mistreat each other, or gossip toward those whom have done nothing wrong. Yet more and more it seems, I continue to see a trend among the body where groups of people (Christians) not only bite one another, but routinely devour one another, all for the sake of self righteousness. This cannot be. This can be readily seen in the recent deaths of those servants who have died in the faith.

When Jan Crouch, co-founder of TBN passed away, the news sent shock waves throughout the body of Christ, saddened by the loss of one of their own, many were words of comfort to the family of Paul and Jan Crouch, yet something else began to spread, and that something was pure hatred. For at the moment that news spread of Jan Crouch’s death, the internet, in social media avenues such as Facebook and Twitter, were filled with vile and venomous hatred at the passing of someone who had been faithful to the calling God had instilled upon her and her husband to spread the gospel across the world. A spirit of maliciousness had reared its ugly head, and once again it was clear to all that the body of Christ is more fractured today than it ever was.

Yet this is the current spiritual state of the modern church of believers today, where we bite and devour anyone who is different than us, has a different calling than us, or has been used by God more than us. No longer do we offer a kind word to another servant, but criticism, envy, jealousy and resentment shape and form our words when we speak of someone within the church. Even when we might disagree on spiritual matters such as doctrine or methods, there is no genuine sign of love toward our brother or sister in Christ, and even in death, nothing comes more to this truth than the current slate of comments and statements over the death of a servant than one who, as flawed a vessel as they might be, is subject to such scorn. Yet it’s not just the dead in Christ who see such animosity, but the living as well.

It seems to some that if one does not abide by their particular idea of how ministry should be conducted, the immediate response is public ridicule and scorn. Yet we see this more and more by many who declare that what another believer is doing is not in line with their theology, and thus, is open to public rebuke, or worse, questions their salvation altogether. Think this is limited to our time and day now? Think again. Jesus had to deal with this even in his day.

In Luke chapter 9, we see something occur that Jesus had to quickly deal with and stop, the seeds of jealousy beginning to be planted in the hearts of several of his own disciples. An argument had begun within the group of 12 over who would be greatest among them, they had taken to heart (wrongly) the notion that they would reign and rule with Christ in heaven. They did not understand at that particular time what Jesus was referring to, as his kingdom was a kingdom of all men and women who would rule and reign with the Lord. Yet these same men who walked with the Lord, ate with the Lord, heard the words of Jesus, these same men called to be his disciples, began to position themselves as to who would be the greater of them and over them. No doubt this caused feelings of animosity and hurt among the twelve, as many were vying for power. Jesus would have none of it. This is why the Lord quickly saw what was going on within their hearts and minds, and began to teach them that the kingdom of God must be understood in the concept of the mind of a child. Humility, love and innocence were the attributes of a follower of Christ, not political maneuvering.

Still, this would not be the last Jesus would have to once again deal with bickering and backbiting (devouring) among his faithful 12. (Matthew 20:21) Yet 2,000 years later, the church is more divided, more resentful, more envious of others than ever before, and how we treat one another is exactly how we will be judged when we stand before God. Understand, it’s one thing to challenge false doctrines and/or those who might teach error, it’s quite another thing altogether to cast away those whom are in Christ for the sake of conformity. Yet more and more, many are biting and devouring others simply out of spite, jealousy and/or greed, and even to be right. This is wrong.

Paul outlined in 1 Corinthians 13 the characteristics of the fruit of the spirit, which is LOVE. “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have no charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.” (verse 1) If we have no love for one another, then can we truly say we belong to him who loves us? The word says otherwise. The word makes it clear that if we do not love our brother or sister, then we are not his at all, for how can we love God and follow Christ if we do not show that same love toward our own? Biting and devouring others might make our flesh and ego full and content, but it by no means is a type of fruit of the spirit, but in reality, it is a sign one has strayed from the cross. If we cannot love one another, following in the steps of Christ, then we cannot love the sinner who needs Christ. For if we are not capable of loving those who are his, how can we love those who are without him? We can’t.

I remind us all of the words of Paul in this matter of love, “Charity suffers long, and is kind; charity envies not; Love vaunts not itself, is not puffed up. Does not behave itself unseemly, seeks not her own, is not easily provoked, thinks no evil. Rejoices not in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails: but whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.” (verses 4-10)

Let us begin to love one another, not bite and devour one another, for then by this doing, shall the world know in whom we belong.

“So do not listen to the words of the prophets who speak to you, saying, ‘You will not serve the king of Babylon,’ for they prophesy a lie to you; 15for I have not sent them,” declares the LORD, “but they prophesy falsely in My name, in order that I may drive you out and that you may perish, you and the prophets who prophesy to you.” (Jeremiah 27:14-15)

I believe in prophecy. I believe in the prophetic gifting. I also believe in the office or role of the prophet in the new covenant. Yet I do not believe in what’s being passed off today as having anything to do with the true mark of those who truly walk in the gifting and calling of “prophet”.

I believe there has been a literal hi-jacking of the gift of prophecy by Satanic forces within the church to not only discredit the office and ministry of the prophetic movement, but also to produce a counterfeit that is so cleverly developed, that it is deceiving many to its seductive charm. The result? Thousands of believers are becoming hindered, harmed and destroyed spiritually by false prophets and their malicious ways. Yet the problem does not lie significantly with those who are actively deceiving the body, but I believe it’s due to two things, #1. a weak pulpit, and #2. gullible Christians. Yet the results are the same, believers getting conned by fast talking “prophets” by false words that never come to pass, and their bank accounts being emptied, all in the name of “the prophetic”. It’s not like you were not told of this though, Peter said it himself in 2 Peter 2:3 “And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep.” Even Peter knew this day would eventually come.

Everyone wants a word.

I heard and seen that all the time in my ministry back in the States, where people ran from one prophetic ministry to another, hoping to receive a “word” from the prophet who claimed that he (or she) had heard from God, but it was vague, confusing and so complex in understanding it, that it would take a theology book of Greek and Hebrew to figure it out. Yet the people were told to just trust the man of God and believe what was given to them without question, because they could never question the words of a prophet, regardless who it was. The people would then return home, once again flustered because they truly never received anything relevant from the Lord, it was all professionally created by a person whose intention was never to truly minister to the believer, but to gain something from them – power, as well as their money. That’s what it is all about in the end with this current “prophetic movement” – power and money. And God has warned and warned about this to his people not to venture into these areas simply because they would be harmed.

Today, one can travel and sit in any one of the current players in the prophetic movement and hear all sorts of crazy talk, all in the name of “prophecy”, but does it line up with the word? The fact is, if a man or woman who claims to walk in the role of a prophet as outlined in Ephesians 4:11, then their words should not be the criteria by which we judge them as genuine, no, the true test of a genuine prophet is not by how accurate they are, but where are they pointing people to? Is it to self? Or is it to the cross? Is it to call men to repent? Or is it to call men to get their blessing? Are their words flavored and coated with comfort, ease and financial reward? Or are they leveled to bring the believer into holiness before a righteous God?

Please understand, God does bless his people, I believe that. God does desire his children to walk in prosperity. I believe that as well. But not at the expense of the cross. Whenever the gift is manipulated to create within the believer a false way which leads the person to cast away the demands of Christ and his call to live right, act right and be right, then something is wrong with that prophet. I don’t care who it is, if the prophet is focused on money, prosperity, getting something from giving something, then that person has traded in their calling and gifting and has sold their soul for lucre.

Even now, a current prophet on the Christian scene was called into question when his prophetic words were exactly of those of a psychic – word for word. The result? Many have called this young man into question and once again, the church is finding itself having to deal with what’s been happening for years, false prophets masquerading as true, gifted servants of God, who were caught stealing from the hearts and wallets of the people. But will it change? Probably not. The truth is, most pastors (due to religious affiliation) have become tied down to Denominational or religious bureaucracy, whereby they are forced to remain silent while these players are given access to their congregation all because of fame due to either Christian television, which has garnered them fame and celebrity status within the modern church, or the powers that be within the religious hierarchy. Why? Because it’s about the money! Follow the money trail and you’ll find your answers.

Until the church wakes up from its spiritual drunkenness and actually starts to do something without fear of religious pushback from the church establishment, then it will continue to be business as usual. The prophets will continue to sweep into city after city, town after town, church after church, deceiving and being deceived all for the love of money, and the people will continue to ask why are things not changing in their lives? The answer is simple, until the people get tired of the false, God will continue to allow them to have it their way until they repent and come back to the cross. Then they will see the error of their ways, and actually begin to see the truth for what it really is – demonic.

God has genuine prophets today, and they are not far from being seen or even sought, the problem? They have become ostracized by the mainline church because the mainline church doesn’t want to hear what they have to say, simply because they have a genuine word from God, but it will demand obedience, a denial of self, nor will it promise wealth, or a new car. But it will call the believer back to the only true source for hope – the cross. Until the church wakes from its love for foolishness of being manipulated, the false prophets, modern psychics and fortune cookies that are being stated as prophecy, or “words”, will continue to run rampant in the modern church, and lead even more believers down a slippery slope where the end game is their spiritual ruin, and their money gone from them. That’s not the way of Christ, but the way of Satan. Snap out of it.

“But if you will not do so, behold, you have sinned against the LORD, and be sure your sin will find you out.” (Numbers 32:23)

Part of the problem with a society, especially one which has been conditioned by popular culture found in sports, music, but most of all mediums – television, is that it conditions people into a world of make-believe. They begin to accept and embrace the character that is being portrayed by the actor, and the results devastating for many when the truth is finally revealed. We see this in the lives of those whom society praises for their performance, but the truth is, especially in the world of television, it’s ONLY a performance. This is the powerful medium of sitcom television.

So what happens when people learn that a lovable tv star whom they have invited into their living rooms week after week, month after month turns out to be anything BUT what they portrayed as their celebrated character? The people become upset, even betrayed. But the truth is, many find out eventually that the person they have idol worshiped was just as human as they were, this presents another problem, what happens when that individual who is placed on such a platform is shown to have attributes of a monster?

Yet we see this being played out right now in our society by a loved tv “dad” to millions, but also to children as well. Even I can remember when Bill Cosby echoed out his familiar “HEY-HEY-HEY!” back in the early 70’s with his Saturday morning cartoon/educational persona as the overweight, but moral guided Fat Albert. But Cosby would go on to greater fame and influence with his alter ego Dr. Cliff Huxtable, a lovable doctor/father figure who would be known for his comical antics, playful admonishments, and relentless teasing humor. The television show, “The Cosby Show” would go on to network fame for NBC during the 80’s, placing Bill Cosby into our society as America’s “dad”. But when knowledge of personal behaviors, episodes of drug use, and worst of all, allegations of rape surfaced, not by one, but many women of all nationalities, it became clear to all that once again, America’s persistent people worship would leave many with heavy hearts.

Yet the list of fallen stars who gained the nations trust, not to mention their wallets, is long as it is thorough. Names, which over the years were fondly spoken of, only to be stained by the mud they wallowed in, prove that this is the result of worship – human worship, that God tells us to avoid. The reason is simple, when God is removed as the object of our faith, glory and worship, then something – anything, must fill that void, such is the case of millions who follow after talents of men, be they a politician, actor, athlete or even a preacher, the results always end up the same – hurt.

In the city of Lystra there was a certain man who had no strength in his lower extremities, having been a cripple from the time he was born, he had never walked.

This man heard Paul preaching. Paul watched him, and seeing that he had faith to be healed, told him loudly, “Stand up on your feet immediately!” And, immediately he lept to his feet and walked. When the citizens of Lystra saw the miracle performed by Paul, they cried out in Lycaonian,
“The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!” They thought Barnabas was Zeus (or Jupiter – the chief god of Greek and Roman mythology), and Paul was Hermes (or Mercury – the messenger of the gods of Greek and Roman mythology) because he spoke more than
Barnabas.

The priest of the god Zeus brought oxen and garlands to the gates of the city from the temple of Zeus, to sacrifice to Paul and Barnabas along with the crowd. When Paul and Barnabas realized what they were doing, they ran into the crowd tearing their clothes (in the manner of Mid-eastern mourning) and shouting. Why are you doing this?

There was nothing special about Barnabas and Paul that would place them on an equality with God to accept worship and sacrifice, they too were mere men, equal in the sight of God with all those in the crowd. Their message to those in Lystra was to turn away from doing things like this, no longer offering sacrifices to false gods or to men. The idols and gods which they worshiped were dead stone and incapable of doing anything, in contrast with the living God who has made the sky, the land, the water and all that are in all three. Sod had not, in the past, said anything to the Gentiles, but now he has sent his message to all men. That is the message which Paul and Barnabas were preaching to them. (Acts 14:8-20)

Even in the world of the church, we can see men being glorified to the level of worship, even praise, which should have went to God (as it’s reserved for him alone) being shown upon men. The results, like that of the secular world remain the same, when these men are shown to have feet of clay, the results are the same across the board – people are devastated. The reason is because we have become a society of man worship, be it celebrities or preachers, the worship of man is an abomination to God. It is an affront to all that is holy to the Lord.

Have you ever wondered why the early church never truly had this problem of man idolization? It’s mainly because the church always knew that God was the foundation of the church, and that its leaders were just that – men. But because of the instant influence of television, especially in the church world, we have made images made of flesh and bone into something greater than ourselves, much like the persona presented on television, these individuals have become something like saints to the non-catholic church. Peter had this encounter with Cornelius, who upon meeting Peter at the door, fell down to his feet and began to worship him. Peter immediately stopped and corrected him by saying, “Stand up,” he said, “I am only a man myself.” (Acts 10:25-26)

The only thing we are required to do as it relates to other believers who hold a calling from the Lord is to give them honor and nothing more, “Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed.” (Romans 13:7)

True, the world will always find another source to worship, just as we see with Bill Cosby, his measure of fame is now ruined by his personal demons as a result of SIN, for someone else will come along to fill that void, and it’s only because they themselves cannot fill that void they so desperately seek, which can only be found in Jesus Christ. Yet the church must understand that the men and women they are putting up for all to worship is idolatry to the Lord, they are, as Peter said to Cornelius – men. They are flesh and blood. Yet by lifting these people up to such a level, not only harms the church, but the entire focus of our purpose, which is drawing men to Christ.

When idols of men fall, everyone suffers, and the reason is because of misplaced worship. When we look at another brother or sister in the faith, regardless of how much praise they have among others, or how many seats they can fill in a stadium, we must understand that if we place these individuals upon a platform of worship, the end result will always be failure, both on the person being glorified, and the Christian who follows them. It’s because we have left the purpose of the cross, where our only hope, our only salvation, our only desire should always be Christ centered and nothing more.

Let us remember the word as it comes to glorying in men, “Do not turn away after useless idols. They can do you no good, nor can they rescue you, because they are useless.” (1 Samuel 12:21)

The world will always find an idol, because they do not know the cross. Yet for the church to gain idols is because we have left the cross for something else. The solution must always be a returning to Christ and what he did on the cross, only then will we finally see an end (at least within the church) when idols fall.

Today, while sitting and eating with my wife at a waffle house here in our city of Chongqing, China (of all places), God began to speak to my spirit and gave me a word for the new year. Here is what I hear in my spirit that we need to take into account.

2016 will be the year where lines will be drawn. These lines will be drawn politically, culturally, economically, and yes – spiritually. But it’s the drawing of the line in the sand spiritually God dealt with me more about than anything else, for it is the SPIRIT of man he is worried about, not only for the sinner, but for the believer. 2016 will be a year where those who have placed their faith in Christ and his work on the cross, those who have continued to pick up their cross and follow him, will have a greater manifestation of his power in their lives. Yet those who have, and continue to have a spirit of lukewarmness will not find solace in God’s favor. This is where I believe we will begin to see a genuine separation begin, from those who are determined to lose all to follow Christ and gain heaven, from those who continue to reject the call to come out from among them and be ye separate.

2016 will be a year where the line will be drawn from truth and fable, scriptural fact versus religious myth. The line will be drawn on the teaching of Jesus Christ and him crucified (the cross), and that which is based on false teachings which reward the flesh.

The lines will be drawn to determine whose truly in this life to see the great commission come to pass, and those who are in it for material gain. The lines will show us the truth of preachers, pastors, prophets and apostles, as well as evangelists and teachers who are either teaching truth, or determined to continue to teach their lies. But it’s those same lines which will be drawn where the believer will have to choose what teaching/message they truly desire, the false from the good.

This, I believe will be the year where God begins to really shake his people up from their spiritual slumber. Make no mistake, the lines must be drawn so that those with eyes to see can make their choices clearly, no false pretenses, no manipulation. If one desires the words of a wolf, they will find that line clearly drawn out before them so that they will cross, knowing the consequences of their actions.

I believe this is setting the stage for the great falling away which is coming in the near future, where a spirit of deception will come upon the land and devour those whom have placed their faith in something other than the cross of Christ.

Yes, 2016 will be a year of change – lines of change. But lines which must be drawn so that all will know where their heart truly is in these last days on planet earth.

“And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24:15)

“And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams” Acts 2:17

A change is about to take place in the modern church and it’s been one which has been long over due. Since the turn of the century the church has underwent a dramatic change in its belief system, its core values and its teachings. One would almost dare say that the church is almost a shadow of its former self these days. Especially in the past 100 years we’ve seen dynamic moves of God that literally changed whole Cities as well as nation’s. In the early 20th century some of the greatest moves of God took place which shook the foundations of the world. But nothing lasts forever.

The apostle Paul gave the church a glimpse into what was coming in the last days, “For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.” (2 Timothy 4:3). From the implementation of the prosperity gospel to replacement theology, the church today is NOT what it used to be. Just what in the world is going on when the vast majority of Christians are no longer shocked to hear false teachings, or a play that depicts Jesus as a homosexual? Just what in the world is going on when that play is actually performed inside a packed church? The truth is that a huge number of churches have completely abandoned the Bible and have instead surrounded themselves with “pastors” and “priests” who will tell them whatever they want to hear. And its spreading.

Someone said to me recently, “You need to get off this kick!” As if denouncing sin and maintaining a certain level of standard was an evil thing? But I refused to denounce that statement because it was an elder, and Paul reminded us to always respect our elders, wrong or right, we treat them with love and kindness. But that doesn’t mean I respect their point of view. I recall some weeks ago, I was contacted by someone in a high position of spiritual authority, and that person told me every which way how I was wrong in my stance against sin and rebellion in the church. By the time I got done with the conversation I was beaten, thrown under the church bus, ripped to shreds of whatever dignity I had and felt like Jonah, find myself a juniper tree and just sit there and complain.

But God spoke to me almost immediately and asked me a simple question, “Are you going to obey what men tell you or are you going to obey me?” Simple enough wasn’t it? And just as quickly as my ego left and my body came back from the virtual beating I took, God reminded me that it was HE who called me into this office of the prophet and it was HE who demanded that I obey him and him alone. It was settled. Yes, since that time I have endured attacks from all sides, but this time I have an advantage, I’m not called by men, I’m called by God.

The hour is late and we are living in the last days my friends. Many of the large churches across America are another example of the rank apostasy plaguing the church in America. The truth is that the vast majority of “ministers”, “pastors” and “priests” currently “serving” in the United States should immediately resign. The truth is that the majority of churches in the United States should immediately close their doors in disgrace. The “church” in America is in an advanced state of apostasy. Very few churches in the United States ever preach about sin, judgment, heaven or hell anymore. Very few churches in the United States believe in the basic doctrines of Scripture anymore. That is why so many people are leaving these dead denominations. Nobody should sit there and listen to these jokers as they openly deny the Word of God. If you are sitting there in a dead, apostate church it is time to get out.

The popular “Woman thou art loosed” pastor TD Jakes stated recently that his opinion about homosexuality has evolved and evolving (source). Jakes goes on to further state that homosexuality is a complex issue. Now, how is that even possible? Does Pastor Jakes not read the Bible he claims to represent as a pastor? Has he not read 1 Corinthians 6:9? Or Romans 1:22-26? Has Pastor Jakes not searched the word to know when something is fundamentally wrong? Apparently not. The bigger issue is not so much about TD Jakes waffling on the issue of sin, but the church itself not calling him into accountability. But this is what happens when popular preachers who have a large following, combined with deep financial pockets can escape scrutiny, because no one wants to touch their favorite idol.

But it’s not just Jakes, it’s many of the popular mega-ministries such as TBN and Hillsong, where ironically pastor Brian Houston can’t even set the matter of his position on homosexuals straight. When men who are supposed to be pillars of the word cannot even speak openly and honestly of what their position is on social issues which have a genuine affect upon the church, then that man or woman has been compromised. They are incompetent.

Paul tells us in the word for us to “mark them” and expose them who teach and preach, leading many astray (Romans 16:17). The fact is, we condemn the preacher who advocates rebuke, yet we endorse and protect the spiritual criminal today who are fleecing the flock. It used to be that Christians knew sound doctrine when they heard it and shunned the false. But not so today. Today we have allowed dramatic flare, wealth and fame to blind our eyes. We have allowed a “celebrity” kind of Christianity to come into our midst and because we look the other way, we ignore the teachings, we wink and nod at the false all the while ignoring the dead bodies that are literally piling up almost daily from those who are being mislead at the hands of wolves in well tailored suits.

I’ve seen good men, preachers with substance, succumb to the pressures and glamour of Christian television, and betray their first command from the word, to preach the word without prejudice. How many preachers and prophets have sold out in these current days we live in merely for money, position and fame? To be seen and heard by thousands rather than to preach the word and let the chips fall where they may? Yet that apostate list continues to grow in number. A young preacher wants a cadillac, he wants fame, applause and the “hot” preacher girlfriend/wife, but at what price? Another sell out to the gospel of prosperity and self. The truth is, a revolution is coming and its near the door. Yes, we cannot change the path this world is heading down, but we sure can change the current path the church is heading on!

So what does that revolution look like? It’s exposing false preachers and pastors. it’s denouncing the rhetoric that is prevalent in the church world today which are leading multitudes astray. It’s calling the church back to holiness and a sanctified life. It’s preaching against sin. It’s calling us all back to the cross. Even if that means removing these reprobates out of the pulpit, so be it. There needs to be a spiritual awakening that must take place and I believe that we’re overdue for a correction. Remember, before God judges the world, he must first bring judgment to his church.

God is calling a people, free from the bonds of this world and he’s calling us to come out from among them and be ye separate. Yes, there is going to be a great falling away, and its only going to get worse, but does that mean that we must stand by and remain silent? Not a chance.

There is a divide taking place in the church right now and a line is being drawn. One faction wants purity, holiness, a Godly standard, while the other wants worldliness, secularism, socialistic Christianity and then there is the flat out apostate church that is growing at an enormous rate in the world. And that’s fine by me, for the word tells me that one day God is going to separate the wheat from the chaff and when he does, we will know for certain whose on the Lord side.

But until then, it’s business as usual. We are to expose the unfruitful works of darkness, expose the sin of worldliness, the continuing watering down of the word of God by Joel Osteen, Joyce Meyer, Rick Warren, or Kenneth Copeland, as well as many others. A revolution needs to occur in the body of Christ to denounce sin in every shape and every form and preach the love of Christ to the world, but also warn of coming judgement.

We have allowed these men and women to have their say for too long and I for one don’t wish for one more day for these idiots to maintain their grip on God’s people. So I say let a Godly revolution arise and the church be the church once again! Yes, this will mean persecution like you have never seen before, but I believe when the revolution breaks out and people reject the false gospel of Joel and Rick and others, a shift will begin in the last days where sinners will actually feel convicted of their sins and not made to feel comfortable as they are currently.

A revolution is coming and I for one think it’s been way long overdue. I’ve got my gun locked and loaded — do you?